Thursday, December 29, 2016

2016 recap and giveaway!!!

Happy holidays and much love, peace, connection, joy AND a plethora of all good things your way, as we head rapidly towards a brand new year!!

I know some of you may have begun to think that I had fallen off the edge of the blogosphere and others have been following along with my topsy turvy 2016 journey on Instagram and Facebook, sending so much love and support my way, that I have spent the better part of my year utterly astonished and grateful for this tribe that I belong to so intrinsically.

I'm going to keep this recap post MUCH shorter than previous years. Not because it has been any less incredible but because I am partially on a PAUSE and that means tending to my own self care and stepping back a little from the crazy pace I have set for myself these past few years.

As usual though, my favorite part of writing this end of year post is that I get to host a GIANT GIVEAWAY in gratitude for all of YOU!!

And all you have to do is leave me a comment below letting me know something that you have been grateful for in 2016.

This year I am giving away 12 gifts valued at $1600!!

(please share on social media and then tell me how many times you did for extra chances to win)

* 6 spots in the upcoming January session of my wildly popular Paint Mojo ecourse. Over 1400 students have now taken part in this class and I have received amazing testimonials from many on how it has changed their creative worlds!

*TWO original paintings from my wise and wonky owl series. these little owls have literally been selling within minutes, sometimes seconds of posting on FB and instagram and I would love you to be the lucky winner of one!

These ones have already flown off to their new homes but the winners will get to choose their own colours!

Paint Mojo the ecourse starts on Jan 20th and runs for six weeks. I would love you to join me even if you don't win a spot!

A special early bird registration of $197 will be available on Jan 1st. You can sign up to be kept in the loop on this class and all of my other artsy news right here.

So let me share just a little of my 2016......

It started off so beautifully.

We had just arrived home from an epic 9 months teaching tour around the globe and I was greeted by our beautiful girls and Santana's sweet man Jacob AND the huge surprise of an incredible makeover they had pulled off on my studio!

We were loving being with our girls and Jacob and the kitties AND a houseful of visiting brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews over Christmas and New Year!

There seemed to be a pattern this year of overwhelming contrast.

Of deep emotions both joyous and heartwrenching.

Like one day I'm cuddling a baby wombat for the first time in my life....

The next I'm helping my baby girl pack up all of her belongings and move three hours away leaving us with an empty nest....

Like one minute I'm backstage in Sydney meeting my dear friend Liz Gilbert of Eat, Pray, Love and Big Magic fame, in person, for the first time, and totally hanging out by the washing machine and all!!

and next minute I'm having a mammogram because I've found a lump, two weeks before I'm heading off for my next three month teaching tour

and then suddenly I'm on the road again, firstly at my favorite art retreat Art Is You in Santa Rosa, Ca

then on to nine other venues across the country including Jenny Doh's amazing Crescendoh studio in Santa Ana. It's fitting that my first two workshops in the U.S this year were held in cities named after saints because I was about to be calling out to every Saint I could think of!

As I made my way across the country, navigating medical phone calls and results from ultrasounds and biopsies, far from home and running the gamut of emotions between uncertainty, dread, hope and optimism, my dear hosts, all of them close friends, held the space for me, loving me and giving me the behind the scenes care that allowed me to keep on teaching.

I taught in some incredible spaces, like this amazing hangar in Dallas and my students, as usual, filled my heart with such joy that most of the time, I was able to be present in the moment, enjoying the beautiful space we were creating together.

I also got to give Liz another hug and she gifted me something very special.....more on that below.

I met up with mi amor in Taos, for a three day romantic rendez-vous, and we hiked and soaked and ate and wandered and filled our spirits with each other. We bought a giant love heart drum, found several heart rocks while hiking to an abandoned mica mine and I was mesmerised by a beautiful photo by Taos artist Zoe Zimmerman of a bare breasted, blindfolded woman next to a beautiful horse at the Love Apple restaurant.

We decided that somehow, everything would be okay.

In Miami we were blessed to spend time with my beautiful Aunt Robbie and her sweet family. We've only known each other for 4 years since I met my biological father in 2012 but it feels like forever. Robbie and her husband Luis bundled us up, connected me with the most beautiful breast cancer care nurse Tania, who I believe is secretly an angel, and within days I was having a fine needle biopsy at South Miami Baptist Breast Center. (Man this is hard to describe in so few words!)

Tania and I are working on a plan for me to come volunteer a workshop for some of the patients there in 2018.

In Melbourne Florida I returned to teach at the most wholeheARTed venue I know; Art Is More, and this truly amazing group of women waited with me on Day one of the workshop for the results of the biopsy, and then, danced and cried and laughed and painted abundantly with me for the next two days, after the results came back as cancer. Truly, truly, truly, being with this group at this time gave me such strength and hope and love and I am sooooooo grateful to these women.

The magical demo painting that came out of our time together remained there in Melbourne with my dear friend Sherri and was appropriately titled "She Tribe"

and on I went, across the country to finish off several more workshops (will share a little more on those over the next few days as I announce daily winners) before returning home to Australia for surgery. Two tumours were removed successfully, I started on hormone blocking medication to prevet recurrence, and my oncologists decided that it was okay to postpone radiation until after we returned home from my Bali commitments in September

and then I made some BIG decisions about 2017

so in August I posted this to FB

Isn't the Universe just so freakin miraculous!!!??

So on we went to the paradise that is Bali and the contrasts continued... a week of bliss with group number one...I mean teaching art in the pool!!! It doesn't get much better than that!

watching the sun rise with mi amor, grateful for each new day....

dinners on the beach with amazing women ( and one equally amazing man).....aaaaaaaahhhhhhhhh!!!

So many amazing memories!

And yes. the contrast. Right in the middle, between two week long retreats, I had factored in a week off, you know, the self care thing I was talking about?

Instead, both mi amor and I became horribly ill, were diagnosed with Dengue fever and end up in hospital for the ENTIRE week between classes!

Special, special thanks to my wonderful friends/students Laura and Kelley who were staying on for a few days after retreat number one and stepped up to get all the goody bags ready for the incoming students while I was in hospital! A MASSIVE thank you also to the sweet students from retreat number two for allowing me naps and swim breaks when I needed them.

You all rock so much!!

and then it was home

to begin 30 sessions of radiation over six weeks

I kept my eyes open for simple beauty and everyday miracles and I found them in the conversations I had with the women in this waiting room....

In the walks that mi amor and I took on the beach before treatment and the sand art created by little roaming clams....

In the sky where I looked to the heavens each day to give thanks as I left the Cancer care center.

and in the eyes of our two beautiful girls who trusted in all the best possible outcomes and gift me every day with their love.

and then, it was done.

and here I am, in this home we have created together over the past twenty years.

Each day I begin with gratitude in my heart, for every part of this year, in all of its messiness and unplanned detours, in all of its poignancy and imperfection.

In all of its loving deep contrast

I wish you all so much happiness in this coming year. It seems 2016 has been tough for many, transforming in many ways, challenging us to step into a higher version of ourselves.

I found these beautiful words from Gandhi so moving and perfect for this time and so I offer them to you all

with love

Tracy xoxoxoxoxxo

ps don't forget to leave me a comment below. I'll be drawing winners daily for the next three days!

Im grateful to be finally on the transplant list after 9 years of dialysis and im grateful to the future family that will make one of the hardest decisions and give me the opportunity to live life out of hospital ..for the opportunity to one day work again and contribute.

Im grateful that the doctors discovered the root cause of my 7months of being ill and vomiting and that is was not cancer returned

Dear Tracy, there is something very special about you. Im so happy I had the change to learn from you in person, you have such a good presence and you are the best teacher. Have a great year 2017 Tracy ♥

What a challenging and amazing year that you have had. Thank you for sharing your story. For me, losing my spiritual teacher, my brother, then 3 cousins and then friends was a challenge as well. Grateful that these people were with my on this path of life for many years. Grateful that life has still much to offer. I wish for you best wishes for 2017. Would love to share some of it with you, through your book and your on-line course. Thank you. super@shaw.ca

2016 has been a year of sea change for so many. Your journey has been inspirational and you have been generous in sharing its most personal and challenging aspects. I am opening a new chapter in 2017 as well. My job in the "real world" has been eliminated and my next chapter has ART in its title. The challenges are daunting sometimes but I'm hoping to be worthy of them. I will delve into your book - I've been saving it! - and perhaps into a gift of your class. Either way, 2017 will be my beginning to the next me. The artist (that was brave and audacious!) at kwoz1@me.com

Hi Tracy, first I just want to tell you that I so love your art, your talent, and just the dear sweetness that just pours out of you! You are a wonderful women! I am very thankful for my family and my husband who never tells me no when it comes to buying my fun art supplies!! But I'm also very thankful for having the internet which has brought me art friends from all over our world, I've made friends and have been able to learn art from so many just like you. It has given me a big joy and great love of art and I love learning and creating art! My life is so happy because of learning how to create art. Thank you for sharing your creative art with all who want to learn it. Cheers for 2017 and more art lessons to learn! Life is wonderful !!

Hi Tracy, i wish you a Happy New Creating Year, and i hope we are going to meet in next years magic creation...and i would love a spot in some of your classes, i have taken Mini Mojo and Paint Mojo...love you magic woman. xoxo anneliewadin@telia.com

Love reading your year end review and I'm sending best wishes to you that your health concerns are all left behind and that it is all smooth sailing from here. I am grateful for so many things in 2016, one of which is the opportunity to travel as much as I did this year - to Florida, Portland, New Mexico and three whole weeks in Spain! So many magical moments with new and old friends that filled my heart.

I've had the extreme pleasure of meeting you for a class here in the US. For some reason I was in a funky place and for the life of me could not connect with myself. I'd love a second chance-do-over and see where that takes me. YOU inspire me! You are so sweet and soft and kind with such a powerful spirit. THANKS for your continued optimism.

It's been a crazy year for many. Focusing on the little, beautiful things is often the only way to get through those huge obstacles in life. I'm ever thankful for a family who has always been there when I nred the. Hugs and love to you for a blessed 2017.-Brandy

This has been a wonderful year and I am so grateful for many things... my family, my friends, my art, my 70 pound weight loss, and seeing your art and the other wonderful artist friends art that I now know. Thank you for sharing your love of art with all of us and thank you for the opportunity to win in your giveaway. You are truly a kind talented and generous resilient soul. Continued happiness and healing to you in the New Year! Happy New Year!!!

Dear sweet Tracy, I read your post and became overwhelmed with sadness and joy! You and your family have had such a rough go of it and yet you all remained strong and the love and faith you share prevailed.You have always been and will always be such an inspiration to me,in so many ways i cannot even tell you! Sending you love and healthy wishes not just for the new year but always! love to you,Jackie

Hello from norway, i have taken your mini mojo cours and i loved it. I am thankfull for that i still can paint. I have a illnes doing my hands chake an are now painting more abstract. Happy new year for you and your family😀

I am grateful for life! All the love,the heartache, and bloom-time. I appreciate each breath I get to take, and each experience that comes in it's wake. And I appreciate people like you Tracey, who just keep looking for and finding, the juicy stuff. Love, hjaleski@gmail.com

I am grateful that I live surrounded by nature, that I do not have to wonder where my next meal is coming from, that I am not encumbered by daily struggles, and that I am surrounded by family and friends whom I love dearly.Mandyfarstar1310 (at) verizon (dot) net

So grateful for you sharing your journey, Tracy. This has been a year of transformation for me as well and I am so grateful for the health recovery of some family members and for my own growth in acceptance and gratefulness. Thank you for giving us this opportunity to win a class with you. It would be awesome!

What an amazing journey you've had this year. Different than planned, yet you opened to the opportunity. I sincerely appreciate you sharing so much, it's way beyond your amazing art. It's your life.I am grateful to have completed a tortuous ten year quest, and now... Yesterday, before this post, I put your spiral book Paint Mojo (purchased one year ago) on my table to begin. My life continues to unfold. Wishing you peace and continued health in the new year.

Tracy, your quest for life is contagious. This past year has been full of trauma for me as my mom died, my dad had two heart attacks, and then I see you (someone I admire most in the world) being brave going through your medical issues! I would so love to be winner in 2017! A class, a beautiful piece of art, an clean breath of air! I hope, hop, hope i can do a class this year and a scholarship would be awesome!

I am grateful every day, for the wonderful smiles I see on Facebook, for words of encouragement, beautiful art and even more beautiful teachers. I am grateful to be a mother, wife, grandmother and great grandmother. I am thankful for each minute and every day I am blessed with.

What a year you've had! I followed it along on Facebook and was always inspired by your strength, your positive outlook and your general elegance in meeting life's challenges! I am grateful for all of 2016 - it was a year of inner transformation for me. I turned 50 and I decided that it was finally time for me to start being the person I am. I used all the tools I had on hand for a lot of inner work and the universe met me halfway at each step. I still marvel at how different I feel as this year comes to a close. Here's to an amazing 2017!!

Dear Tracey:I too had many chemo treatments for cancer this past year. Your stories and photos and insights express exactly how I feel about this world, all the beautiful women in it, and the spirit we all carry within us. Thank you for sharing your beauty with all of us.

Tracy, I'm thankful that I had the opportunity to study with you in May, in beautiful St. Pete Beach. You were in the middle of finding out your diagnosis (or had just found out) and yet, none of us knew you were going through anything so scary. Having gone through my own similar health scare this fall, I'm not sure how you pulled that off. I so appreciate your generosity of spirit and knowledge, and for showing me that I can be an artist - even if I can't draw.

You have such an amazing life. I love reading all about it. I am thankful for so many things, but on this topic I am thankful for early detection and the advances they have made in the last decade in cancer research. My mom is a cancer survivor and I too went in for a mammogram because I found a lump recently and fortunately it wasn't cancerous. I am so thankful for that.

First I am thankful for God and his strength, we face so many challenges in this world but he is there to help or to carry us when needed. Like giving us the talent of art where we can get lost in creation and take our mind off the challenges. I know for me these are the only times I can get completely immersed and hours fly by and I do not have to think about all the things that are not right in the world or my immediate life. Thank you for sharing your beautiful art work with all of us. I to hope one day you can teach in my area. Sincerely.

First I am thankful for God and his strength, we face so many challenges in this world but he is there to help or to carry us when needed. Like giving us the talent of art where we can get lost in creation and take our mind off the challenges. I know for me these are the only times I can get completely immersed and hours fly by and I do not have to think about all the things that are not right in the world or my immediate life. Thank you for sharing your beautiful art work with all of us. I to hope one day you can teach in my area. Sincerely.

What a beautiful year you have had. Thanks for sharing it. I am having my own health challenges as the year closes. I am grateful that my chest pains were not my heart. Although Asthma is a challenging disease I can find gratitude within it as I move forward. A happy blessed new year to you.

Tracy, I'm so thankful to have met you in 2016 in St. Pete. It is one of my best memories for the year, and though we live so far from each other, I think of you and hold space for you, knowing what you are going through. Blessings to you for 2017, a time to pause, heal and enjoy time to paint and create. All will be well! :) With love, Wendy Fierro

I am grateful for the time spent with my family and friends. The last half of this year has been very difficult. My mom was diagnosed with Mesothelioma cancer and it came as a huge shock. Since then she has tried chemo which unfortunately did not work. She is now trying an experimental drug but she has had many side affects and countless trips to the er. So I am very grateful for those that have been here for me and my family and for the time I have had with all of them. I am also grateful for art and all of the artists that inspire me. Even though I have not had time to create since August, I sit in hospitals and oncologist offices with my mom I share with her the various artists blogs - like yours - and it helps pass the time. So thanks for the continued inspiration. I hope to get back into my studio this coming year and would love to win a spot in your class. Ps thanks for sharing your very inspiring story and battle. Stories like yours bring me hope. scrap.stacy@yahoo.com

Four of my friends took your course in Melboure and I'm only sorry that I couldn't join them. Please let me know the next time that you do a workshop in Florida. I am thinking about the e-course, as I love your work. Much good health to you in the new year!

I am grateful that I just enjoyed the 2nd of my annual trips to New York City with my sister, who has stage 4 breast cancer. My little sister is 52 and was diagnosed with breast cancer 2 years ago. She received treatment, then 6 months later it came back. She's on a medication now that she will take for the rest of her life, but it worked and her cancer is in remission!! Last December, we went on a sister's vacation to New York City. We went again this year and will go every year until I drop dead (probably around 90), then she will have to go with her daughter! (which will be fun, but, of course, not AS fun LOL) My sister is doing great now...making art....spending time at the beach....and just "livin life". I've followed you for several years and taken several of your classes online. You have a beautiful spirit and I just know that everything will work out for you. You can taken even the darkest thing and make it beautiful!

Hi Traci! It is amazing all you did this year even while in treatment!I would love to paint with you in Bali but don't see that happening for awhile so doing Paint Mojo would be the next best experience!Lindy - pinecone@cybermesa.com

Wow you have had an amazing year with ups and downs but in the face of it all you remain positive and an inspiration. I end each day reflecting on the things that I am grateful for. A constant for me is my family, including my husband, goofball sons (in the best way) and sweet baby girl. They keep me smiling and feeling so blessed for this life. Hope you are feeling well, and thank you for the opportunity!

2016 hasn't been the best year, but I can truly say that I am grateful for being able to continue homeschooling my daughter,pursuing my art, getting my son the services he needs, and having my husband's love and support. Looking forward even if a bit cautiously to 2017. Much love, health,and happiness to all in the time ahead!

Please shine and colour our World as you did this year and before. Take care of yourself!And dear Marco, you are the best friend and partner I see, take care of Her and you!Wish You both a beautiful new year full of joy, love, and health.Big hug and lots of loveIldy Ati and the kids❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

I am grateful for our big crazy family. We love and laugh and celebrate each other through good times and bad (including cancers and other serious illnesses). We have a strong support system. Happy for you! We are survivors!

Good morning. I see where you had encouraged us to put in another comment for an extra chance to win. I would so much love to win one of your painting courses.Woo hoo. This morning I am thankful for my fireplace and a roof over my head. It is 21° in Bend Oregon. Snow piled up from last week is frozen stiff. Sheet of ice on many of the walkways. Unusually cold weather for a long period of time. Due to be in the negative numbers next week. I should be in Mexico. I've been staying in and painting since I don't want to end up on my head if I go out walking. LOL. I got a total knee replacement this year and I am being very cautious of doing anything that would re-injure it. Enjoy your lovely weather. So glad you get to take time off for yourself for a while. your online friend, suzannedesigner@gmail.com.

Thank you for sharing your journey. You are such an inspiration. As I look at your year, it makes me realize how much I have to be grateful for. There have been many ups and downs this year, but I have been blessed most of all with the love of family and friends. Thank you for your inspiration and generosity. Wishing you healthy and happy year ahead.

Tracy what a beautiful post, I am so grateful that I still get to put my feet onto the earth each morning, and no matter what happens in my yesterdays I am able to start over, fresh and new... You know its true that this year has been hard on so many people, so much grief and pain out there in the world, but I hold on to the beauty of the truth in people, and OMG Art right it brings so delicious beauty to our world... Each day I spent feasting on the gorgeous Art that so many share you included and the world seems right to me.... Thank you for the opp to win and learn from you as I am still finding my way...thank you for sharing your gifts...you are a beautiful soul I can tell even thou we never met, maybe one day who knows..

1)Shared on Google +2)Share on Twitter3)Shared on my fan page Cultivate Divine Love which I am slowing building

Thank you for sharing your journey of 2016. I am inspired by your positivity and ability to see the beauty around you in everyday things and events that pass many of us unseen. That you look at the sky and sand, happiness and stress and see the art in it is so fantastic! Wishing you good health and enormous joy in 2017!💕

Thank you for this chance, Tracy, and for providing such awesome inspiration! In 2016, I have been grateful for discovering my artist's soul, and for finally being able to call myself an artist after years of denying it. My goal for 2017 is to continue to be an artist, in as many ways as possible.

I am grateful for a new year with my husband, as we both had near death experiences in 2016. I admired your strength in your time of hardship this past year. We truly do lift each other up. Thank you for your positivity! ❤ artwoman@emullenart.com

Sometimes we get oh so caught up in our disappointments, what should have, could have been. Your beautiful post reminds me to "pause" and breath in the positive and the beauty that surrounds me not just today, but every day!

It is so doggone "affirming" when you share your mix ups and craziness. You make the rest of us feel so normal. I am ALWAYS good for a laugh and laugh easily at myself. Our lives are short. But I am going to add another GRATEFUL....(with no agenda and pure sincerity) I/we are grateful to you and all the JOYS and TREASURES (I say with tears in my eyes)you bring to us. NOTHIN' BUT LOVE FROM MY HEART, wanda. xoxoxxo

I have enjoyed reading what everyone is grateful for - in this very difficult year, it's a good reminder of the positive aspects when it's so easy to focus on the negative.I am grateful to have survived the year relatively intact despite everything, to the online (art) community that has supported me, even lifted me up. And above all grateful to have a teenage daughter who still actively wants to spend time with me.

Tracy you are truly an amazing human being- I admired you before and now admire you even more for your strength and your positive outlook on life even when faced with many obstacles. You are so brave to share your experiences so we all feel like part of the family. Please keep on being the wonderful person you are and continue sharing your beautiful soulful art with the world!

Tracy you are an example to us all on how to do this thing called life. I am sooooo relieved that you got the all clear - you have even more great work to do helping others heal. I was due to do your Huskisson class in December but had to cancel (gutted but that's life). I do hope to get to meet you in person one day. I hope 2017 is amazing for you and us all - wth love to you and your peeps. Angela x

Sending you so much love and healing for the coming year! I've followed your journey on FB. You are such an inspiration to me! I would be honored to win a spot in your class and be able to learn from you!

I am grateful for discovering intuitive painting and starting my own personal journey. I am grateful for peace quiet and stillness. I am grateful for beauty touching my soul and my heart being wide open. 2016 has been a difficult year and I am grateful it's nearly at its end and new beginnings and possibilities are beckoning me through that door. I am learning to be grateful for being me. ♥

Thank you for your inspiration Tracy. The thing I'm most thankful for is that my family and I live in a country free from conflict and unease and my new Grandson has an advantage that many other babies born in 2016 do not. A safe place to call home, warmth, food and love. And a Nana who loves creating and will introduce him to it as soon as possible! Have a wonderful year ahead and may your troubles be small and few x

Wow! What an incredible year Tracy! Mine was no way near as busy but certainly had a very big unexpected turn with my partner choosing to walk away. Heartwrenching to say the least. But I have been looking out for all the miracles in my life...That one having the gift of gratitude. I'm so grateful for my mother and daughter who have helped me through with their all encompassing love xX Hope 2017 is one of good health and relaxation x

Wow! What an incredible year Tracy! Mine was no way near as busy but certainly had a very big unexpected turn with my partner choosing to walk away. Heartwrenching to say the least. But I have been looking out for all the miracles in my life...That one having the gift of gratitude. I'm so grateful for my mother and daughter who have helped me through with their all encompassing love xX Hope 2017 is one of good health and relaxation x

Wishing you the most magical and powerful year yet Tracy!!! I am so deeply grateful to have you and your gorgeous heart and indomitable spirt grace touching my life! I feel so blessed to have you in my life and look forward continuing to grow with you and to sprinkling Intrepid Joy with you in whatever form it takes!!! Sending you oodles and endless love and light to you gorgeous woman!!! xo Shelby

I don't know what happened with my comment. I think it went somewhere up on a cloud, so if you find another comment, it's because I lost it.

Anyway, I've been following you on Facebook all year and jumped for joy, shed tears of sorrow, and smiled at your art and realized that we all must show love and give love everyday because every day is a gift. Thanks for the update, it brought back all the different feelings I had for your posts.

Thanks also for a chance to win one of your classes and one of your painting! I would be awesome to own art made by your own wonderful hands!!

Happy New Year! What an amazing year you had in 2016 Tracey, the good and bad. You are such an inspiration with how you approach and face things. I am grateful for all that my 2016 brought me. My painting took off in 2016, I shared many good times with family and friends and the year ended with some amazing news from my Son and his partner. Onwards and upwards in 2017! Love, peace and harmony to all xo

I am grateful for the positives that are present despite a very challenging year as a parent supporting our child through an extremely hard period in his life......I celebrate our family's strength and resilience, reaffirmed friendships, love in abundance and the art that has helped get me through (including the weekend learning with you) Life wasn't meant to be easy but it is still beautiful!

Tracy!!! What an amazing year!! I have so enjoyed tagging along. I have always been creative and wanted to create with paint...so 2017 is the year I take the plunge. Thank you for the opportunity to win the class...but I am in, win or not!!@Happy New Year!!Deborah and the furry gang!

HaPpy NeW YeAr! Love from Santa Cruz, CA. Looking forward to a ridiculous New Year...Why not say it how I am feeling? It will be one heck of a ride! I hope to win a spot in your lovely course! Much love. Cindy

Tracy ... you paint such a beautiful picture not only on paper , but also on the canvas of life. Reading your 2016 recap really brings home how much one can achieve when there is passion and determination... Two things you most definitely have in abundance. Your zest for life with all it's colour and drama touches everything you create. May 2017 bring you good health , happiness and love . Most of all love ... where would we be without it? <3 namaste <3

Tracy, you are such an inspiration and blessing. Walking the path of beauty with enthusiasm and grace. Blessings on your journey in 2017. I look forward to see more of your gorgeous work and reading about your experiences.

You are a truly talented and inspirational woman. I missed the chance to meet you in Feb coming as the course was canceled for you to rest and recover. I wish you all the best and hope one day to be able to meet you. In the meantime I purchased your book and would be honored to be able to do your e course.

You have always amazed me and this last year watching you sail through the year teaching and finding ways around your health challenges and continuing on has been incredibly inspiring. I have been sending you love, hugs, and healing from afar through your journey and am so glad to hear you are taking a pause to recuperate and tend to self care. I am grateful for all the little wonders in the day... from the way the sunlight falls on the wooded pathways to the beauty of watching the snowflakes in the trees.... life is amazing.Happy New Year... wishing you all the best and most magical times in 2017!

Hi TraceyI am grateful for the gift of life and for the chance to be a grandma again this year (twice over). I am grateful for the joy and beauty of art and creating. It brings so much pleasure and joy. I am grateful for the love of family and connectedness. I am grateful for the beauty around me and in sharing with others who inspire me and encourage me to create, like yourself. I have loved your animalitos course and if I were to win this course, for that I would be grateful ;)Love and blessingsSusanIG artsysumo64E: tea-4-three@hotmail.com

I have just read your post and have come away feeling how strong you are. To face something so defining and continue to do what you had committed to while you waited on test results etc. You a wonderful woman and I hope your recovery continues to go well. I am at the start of a journey of trying to discover where I fit in the world and how to take that pause you talk about. The universe keeps on trying to slow me down to take time to nuture myself and this year I plan to do just that. I am hoping that taking your course will help me connect with the inner me and allow me to understand myself a little more and what it is that I am hiding from Wishing you all the health and happiness in the world.

Last year seems to have been a challenging one for many people, including myself and Tracy you have been a huge inspiration with the way you've dealt with your challenges. Obviously, what I was coping with was quite different to what you had happening, but the grace courage and determination you showed while positively moving forward with your treatment and sharing your story, made me think that if you could deal with big challenges in life, then I could too. It's been one of the most difficult times I've ever experienced but I have managed to make some big life changes. I'm grateful for all I've experienced, the good the bad and the ugly - I've learnt so much about myself and I have much to look forward to. I wish you a happy healthy and abundant 2017.

You're such a productive, creative and generous artist! Thank you for sharing your news and for being so inspiring. 2016 brought me improved health after a long period of illness, a deep reconnection to nature from daily walks (walks I couldn't do when I was ill), and increased energy levels that allowed me to explore my creativity. May the new year bring you many creative adventures. Have shared your giveaway on FB xx

Wonderful Tracy, you inspire me to actually get going with making my art happen instead of only feeling the fear lol. You are a breath of fresh air. May your whole being be nourished in your time out. What a fabulous role model you are!! grantrosie@gmail.com

Hi Tracy fro Italy!! You're such a beautiful person and I love your art!! Even if you had many problems you're still happy and you give the world your kindness!! I'm grateful to know you and happy to have this artistic way to relax me. Be always like you are!! Big kisses. Rossana

Your joy and light just lit up my screen and heart at 3 am in the NEW YEAR. artwand@hotmail.com ;) <3More GRATEFUL's: A chance on earth this long to LOVE DEEPLY (as my mother did) those that I never LOVED DEEPLY till now. HAPPY NEW YEAR to you Tracey and you staff that works so hard and well! xo

Tracy, you are such a joy to behold. I don't mean to sound flip/insincere but I had moments of profound pride when hearing how you approach life. You know, The deep kind in humanity that makes you feel like anything and everything IS actually possible when you see someone getting it right, living in abundance and gratitude. It's a beautiful thing and makes me want to be a better person, be the light. 2016 has been a pretty amazing year. It's the first entire year since my hubby and I were married in 2008 that he has had a job the entire year, and (other than a slip or two) has also been extremely successful at his sobriety. I am overjoyed and feel like the light of the universe is shining on us <3

Shared on Facebook, and Twitter..... thanks for the opportunity to win a spot in one of your classes. It would be so exciting to continue to try and develop my artistic ability with someone like you. I love your art so much. Happy New Year and may love, peace, and joy shine on you this new year. My email is vampyrdancer@gmail.com

Dear Tracy, Thank you for sharing your journey with us. Your exuberant spirit radiates through everything. Blessings and continued healing to you and your family in 2017 and always. Take good care. Christine O'Brien

Congrats to the winners of the free spots to courses. Still one more day of draws and I'm keeping my fingers crossed. I understand you want to reach us through email (a reason to add another post here for me). I don't like leaving my emailadress in a way that webcrawlers can easily pick it up, so I'm posting my email slightly scrambled : corinnebekker at gmail. :-) . Wishing you continued success on your art journey, Tracy, and less upheaval in 2017! I so enjoy seeing your colorful art. <3

Thank you so much for sharing the ups and downs of your amazing life. It's been another rough year for me....losing my Mother this time. Your art is so joyful it gives me a lift on sad days. I hope the new year brings lots of love and joy. Hugs.

Thank you so much for sharing the ups and downs of your amazing life. It's been another rough year for me....losing my Mother this time. Your art is so joyful it gives me a lift on sad days. I hope the new year brings lots of love and joy. Hugs.

I have so much to be grateful for , my family who teach me so much about what it means to love , and art my refuge from the world . email is paulawalsh55@hotmail.com ... best of luck to everyone and may 2017 bring us what we need

Tracy: I've said it before but I really enjoy your style of teaching. Your calmness and approach to creating art is so appealing and I'm having so much fun with your online workshops. I'm feeling extremely grateful for so much this past year. Two of our children got married in 2016 which means that our family has grown! This coming May we are looking forward to an Italian vacation with all of them and some close friends. We can hardly believe our good fortune. I'm grateful that I was able to retire last year which has allowed me to make art on a more regular basis. That's all good stuff! All the best for you, Tracy... lots of love, health and happiness.

Happy New Year Tracy! My name is Ruth, email is crystaldove54@yahoo.com. I hope this year brings many good things for you.I am very grateful for my wonderful family and friends. They are always there to help and support me in everything I do. I love your paintings, they are very inspiring, makes me itch to get to a canvas, but I dont know where to start. Taking one of your ecourses would be fantastic, winning a free spot would be magical!

This is a wonderful giveaway Tracy. Your journey is truly amazing, your art beautiful and the gracefulness in the way you live is so inspiring. Thank you for sharing so much with us all. I am grateful for many things over the last year, that my health is stable is at the top of my list. For the support and love of my friends and family. That I have the time and means to pursue a continuing adventure in making art and development of a personal style. For the teachers I have become acquainted with online as part of that journey and all I am learning from them. For the horses that have become part of my life and the way they ground me, mentor me and guide me through another evolution of my soul. I'm so grateful to still be here, happy to be alive and continue to look through the lens of love. Happy New Year, may it be awesome!

You inspired me, 9years ago my world was turned upside down. My husband was diagnosed with rare form of Cancer. He has since passed away. I'm grateful for our son who has been a blessing even though he has struggled. Many times I wanted to quit but knowing my son needed me I didn't. Art has given me a new lease on life. Thanks for a chance to win. Good thoughts and prayers for your complete recovery!!!Jackiejackiesmith645@gmail.com

May you find peace within...my best friend is also on this journey. She is a true warrior woman. Her strength and tenacity is amazing. We had a party when she shaved her head. Each woman brought a scarf or hat for her to wear. Two friends took turns shaving her hair off. I stood back tearing up, watching as her teenage daughter began to cry. But of course my friend turned into something funny because that's how she is. She had them give her a Mohawk first and we captured several pictures of her in the full on Mr. T poses. She is amazing and beautiful and empowering. I wish you the very best in your journey.

I shared on my personal page (Brittney Gobble), and my Photography FB page (Brittney Gobble Photography). I love the mini animalito course I purchased! I kove your style. I'm so happy you are doing well. You are such a strong and talented woman!

Thank you, Tracy, for all you do and share through your art and your blog,even while in the midst of your difficult, difficult year! Praying for health and happiness this coming year for you and your family.

Wow if anyone deserves to PAUSE it would be you. You have had to be brave and strong for far too long. We all love your personality and inner truth. It shines out in everything you do. We will be here when you are ready again. Take the time. Get well and become energised.I truly hope 2017 is a joyous year for you in every sense of the word.One day I hope to take one of your courses. I was so close to joining you in Bali last year. It is definitely high in my bucket list!

Grateful for myself. Sounds self centered? Maybe but in best way possible. I lost over a hundred pounds 'this year and am finally in the world vs being outside looking in . Grateful for finding strength of heart through women artists like you and friends who lift me up and believed in me. I warriored my way through every day and chose a day and said The Fight Begins Today. The fight to save my life and there's no going back "there" there's only "here".so my gratitude not only is for my cheerleaders but also with my own strength of heart. ��

You are such an amazingly strong woman! I seriously cannot fathom how you do all that you do and while battling for your health! i do remember your recap last year and despite this one being shorter it's just as amazing and colorful :)Hoping for the best in 2017.And hoping to take one your classes someday ;-)

I enjoy you and your art so so much. I enjoy reading your blog. It is so inspiring. Thank you for sharing. I am so grateful for the good friends I have and how they have stayed close to me this year. I have only been painting a few years and have so much to learn. I would love to win a spot in one of your classes in 2017. Thank you and good luck in the new year.

You are an inspiration to all of us... but there is a spirituality to all creative people that helps us and guides us through our challenges! I’m glad your light is bright and shinny and I would love to be part of your face class! My email is nardja.segui@gmail.com and my name is Nardja... love your artwork Tracy! ❤️

My dear awesome, wonderful, talented, creative friends! It's that time of the year again, a time for recaps and reflections.......

When you do things from your soul, you feel a river moving in you, a joy. ~Rumi

Followers

sweet words from students :)

Dear Tracy,

I have had such an amazing response to your workshop. It has gone far beyond the painting of a picture. You have an incredible , supportive and intuitive energy that is contagious. Teaching others about freeing yourself up, from the ever present ‘critical mind’, is life changing. I am so inspired by your wonderful workshop. I have been applying simple messages from the day into my everyday life, and the roller coaster of life is so much richer and exciting with the knowledge of letting go and trusting in the process. This wonderful painting (that I have hung above my computer) reminds me every day that life always has a way of working out for the better if we just let go.....

Your way of teaching is subtle, yet powerful, and you guide others to discover for themselves important insights. I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to be a part of this very special day

~Vanessa

Thanks again Tracy for such a wonderful, colourful, transformative, powerful, peaceful weekend.....I really see how much I get caught in detail and perfection and beautifying and how this has it's value but as you pointed out to me, if I'm feeling like I'm tensing and tightening up with this then move the energy, shift and also be bold to make big changes if things aren't working! That's a big one. But this is life, nothing ever stays completely the same does it!SO yes thanks SO very much for your colourful, loving, gentle yet powerful and generous sharing on the weekend. Looking forward to journeying more with you creatively and in friendship.~Katie